Nicolo Fagioli revealed that his ultimate career ambition is to represent Italy on the grandest stage after making a triumphant return to the national team setup following a two-year absence.
The 25-year-old midfielder, who transferred to Fiorentina from Juventus, was handed a surprise start in Monday's dominant 4-1 victory over Turkiye in the Nations League group stage.
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Subscribe"I didn't expect this call-up, but I really hoped for it. My biggest dream is to go to the World Cup with Italy," Fagioli stated during an interview with RAI Sport.
Fagioli's journey back to the Azzurri jersey has been marked by personal growth and maturity following a turbulent period in his career that included an eight-month ban in 2023 for online gambling.
Fagioli Defends Young Teammate After Criticism
"I have matured a great deal, I feel more sure of myself, more ready to step up in some situations, and more determined in others," reflected the midfielder on his personal development.
With upcoming fixtures against a formidable France side on the horizon, Fagioli is eager to cement his place in the squad and prove his long-term value to the national team.
Amidst the celebrations following their victory over Turkiye, Fagioli took time to address the online criticism directed at teammate Alessandro Romano following his national team debut.
"Social media loves to celebrate when you are doing well and then smash you back down at the first mistake," Fagioli remarked when defending the young Cagliari midfielder.